Why Psychodynamic?

The psychodynamic approach aims to offer a holistic treatment approach and a more thorough examination of the self. It is a way of thinking about ourselves and ourselves in relation to others, allowing the opportunity to explore behavioural patterns and relationships where it might feel helpful.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a process of growth, self-discovery and change by exploring how current difficulties can be influenced by past early relationships. The psychodynamic method has its roots in psychoanalysis promoting 'free association', speaking freely about what comes to mind; to think about unconscious connections between the past and present experiences. Sessions are led by you, where we work together in understanding the issues you may bring. We can focus on whatever is on your mind on that day or in that moment. There is no how-to manual, no agenda and no formula. I believe that working together we can create a safe thinking space which enables deeper reflection on yourself as well as your experience of the people and the world around you.

Long-term

Psychodynamic

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is not like most other psychological therapies. It is not about solving problems or learning new skills. The scope is more profound and the process is more searching, slower and longer lasting. In brief, the aim is to deepen self-knowledge and self-acceptance in a lasting way, by entering into a particular kind of relationship with a therapist. This relationship is often long lasting, over some years, and comes to involve a level of openness and honesty that is not possible elsewhere in our daily lives. The relationship with one’s therapist may be likened to that with a close family member, who knows you well, perhaps better than you know yourself, but it differs in that the relationship is not a mutual friendship, but a professionalised focus on you and your mind. Unconscious beliefs and feelings inevitably find an expression in the therapy, and in the evolving relationship with the therapist, providing an opportunity for learning from this live emotional experience.

Short-term

Psychodynamic

Short-term therapy can be helpful if you are unable to afford long-term therapy, have time constraints or have a specific goal in mind. I normally recommend working for about 6 months, however this can be tailored to match your circumstances. The way of working is similar to long-term work, however I will generally try to find a common theme within the work, a difficulty you are trying to overcome and help understand some of the unconscious influences coming up in our work.